"Working harder than ever"

It's all about working harder than ever and keeping the faith, according to frontman Noel Hunt, as the Royals prepare for their eight-game Barclays Premier League run-in.

Although a number of players are away on international duty, training resumed as normal this week at Hogwood Park after a couple of days' rest - and Noel emphasised the importance of putting the work in.

“I was at home for St Patrick’s Day which was good to have some rest and see friends and family. But we've been back into training which is great," the striker said.

“It's obviously quieter right now with the players away on international duty, but that doesn't mean our hard work stops. We worked on things yesterday and we'll work on different things again today, looking at how we can improve.

"Of course it's been a difficult few weeks but it’s important that we have stayed positive. If we keep believing that things will happen with the work that we are putting in in training, then I’m sure it will out on the pitch."

With 24 points still up for grabs, Hunt still has a strong belief that the Royals can retain their top flight status because the group are completely in it together.

"This is a great bunch, really good guys, we’re all here for each other and help each other out however we can. There’s a real family environment here and it's a great place to be," Hunty continued.

"It's about working harder than ever before right now. We've still got plenty of games to go, lots of points to play for. If we get a couple of wins, we’re right back in it. And I know we can do it.

"That’s what we've got to try and do. It is so possible and we’ve got to stay strong mentally and believe we can do it. Bring it on I say!”